Community-based access to oral antiviral treatments for COVID-19 in Australia.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The availability of oral antivirals for SARS-CoV-2 infection reduces the risk of severe, acute illness in people at higher risk for death and hospitalisation. OBJECTIVE: The process for antiviral prescription and dispensing in Australia is outlined using nationwide data. DISCUSSION: Australia has focused on providing rapid access to antivirals to high-risk people in the community via general practices and community pharmacies. Although the introduction of oral antiviral treatments is an important part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination remains the most effective way of mitigating the risk of developing severe complications of COVID-19, including hospitalisation and death.